Thinking about traveling to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica translates to “rich coast, and its easy to see how it got its name.
There are nonstop flights to Costa Rica from more than a dozen U.S. cities.
Come in winter; the country is one of thebest places to visit in March.
Rooms initiate the gamut from traditional queens with balconies and ocean views to treehouse suites with private plunge pools.
Nayara Springs
This adults-only oasis was voted one ofCentral Americas best resort hotelsbyTravel + Leisurereaders.
Shes a fan of the welcome drink, Costa Ricas answer to the bloody mary.
MeanwhileEmmanuel Burgio, a T+L Top Travel Advisor, praises the private plunge pools.
Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo
This family-friendly resortis one ofT+L’s top 500 hotels in the world.
His pro tip is to bring binoculars to spot the humpback whales migrating offshore in winter.
In addition to proximity to wildlife, Burgio loves the waterfront location.
The bungalows boast terraces with ocean views and outdoor showers, and the shared outdoor pool overlooks the Pacific.
Best Things to Do
Explore the national parks.
Between its diverse flora, fauna, and geothermal features, Costa Rica is a nature-lover’s paradise.
Go surfing.
As you improve, try the Nicoya Peninsula.
Indulge in wellness-focused experiences.
Costa Rica is also a popular destination for yoga or surfing retreats.
Soar through the tree canopy on a zip line adventure.
Hanging bridges are usually an option, too.
At Selvatura Park in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, there are nearly two miles of treetop walkways.
Get outside in the Pacuare Region.
According to Burgio, the Pacuare River is also the best place in Central America for whitewater rafting.
Lidias Place is where he goes for the best Caribbean chicken.
A small, family-owned establishment, dont be surprised if Lidia stops by to say “hola.”
Since its deemed one of the best restaurants in Central America, reservations are a must.
And because the chef-driven tasting menu knows no bounds, its not ideal for picky eaters.
Best Time to Visit
Thebest time to visit Costa Ricadepends on your goals.
September and October are the rainiest on the Pacific side, according to thecountrys official tourism website.
For the best cultural events, visit during January for Palmares or during Easter Week.
As a predominantly Catholic country, many of Costa Rica’s biggest holidays correspond with religious events.
SJO is your best bet if youre visiting Manuel Antonio, Limon, Arenal, or the Osa Peninsula.
It also tends to have the cheapest flights.
For trips to Guanacaste and Alajuela, youll probably want to fly into Liberia.
Both airports offer rental cars.
Of course, its possible to fly into one airport and out of the other.
And transferring between the two is easy thanks to public buses and shared shuttles.
The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Here are three we recommend starting with.
Its also where youll find the countrys best culinary offerings.
For now, buses are the best public transportation.
While most are privately owned, fares are low.
For example, a four-hour ride might cost $10.
“Directo” buses offer nonstop service, while “colectivos will have more stops.
It’s also easy to pre-book private car services or shuttles online.
We recommend sticking to taxis and private car services.
Courtesy of Nayara Resorts
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Andres Garcia Lachner/Courtesy of The Retreat Costa Rica
Courtesy of Selvatura Park
Courtesy of Hotel Belmar
Courtesy of Sano Banano Beachside Hotel & Restaurant
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
